President Obama attracted media attention recently when he sent a text message to Republicans containing a rather pointed message. On Tuesday, a communication issued from Democratic circles carrying the message: “#doyourjob“. The communication reportedly contained an attachment, too, a visual image displaying animation. This cartoon supposedly depicted the length of time required for the confirmation of every one of the previous United States Supreme Court nominees throughout the long history of the federal government.
Proponents of the message claimed the cartoon depicted the varying periods of time required for the confirmation of every single Presidential nominee in history for a seat on the nation’s highest federal court.
They described the animation as factually accurate, noting that it covered a period of time dating from the modern era and extending back into the past, all the way to the administration of President George Washington, the first President of the United States. President George Washington, a supporter of the Federalist Party, became the President of the United States on April 30, 1789. The animation therefore addresses a period of time covering well over two centuries.
The media coverage surrounding President Obama’s text message concerns a controversy which arose following the unexpected death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Justice Scalia passed away recently while vacationing at a resort.
Since news of his passing gained media attention, some Republican lawmakers have made public statements suggesting that they would not approve any Obama Administration nominee for a seat on the United States Supreme Court this year. The President’s text implies rather humorously that members of Congress should not reject the approval of his nominee before he even issues a nomination. The job descriptions for Senators requires a more diligent attitude!